Karu: Prof. Haruna Ayuba, Vice-Chancellor of Bingham University, announced that Nigeria appears to be winning the battle against HIV/AIDS through innovative advancements in molecular science. This statement was made during the 14th Inaugural Lecture of the University, held on Thursday in Karu, Nasarawa State. The lecture was delivered by Prof. Prosper Okonkwo, a notable Professor of Infectious Disease and Epidemiology from the Department of Community Medicine and Primary Health Care at the university.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ayuba highlighted that Nigeria’s battle against HIV/AIDS has been bolstered by innovations in vaccine research, antiretroviral therapies, and diagnostic tools. These advancements have played a crucial role in saving millions of lives and slowing down the epidemic’s progression. However, Ayuba emphasized that the fight is not yet over, as scientific breakthroughs alone cannot address the socio-economic and cultural factors that influence the transmission and treatment adherence of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
The Vice-Chancellor pointed out that achieving sustainable impact requires a comprehensive approach that integrates science with policy, education, community engagement, and health system strengthening. He stressed the importance of translating molecular research into accessible diagnostics, affordable treatment options, and effective prevention strategies tailored to Nigeria’s diverse populations. Ayuba expressed his gratitude to Okonkwo for sharing his expertise and urged other faculties to continue the academic tradition of inaugural lectures.
During his address, Okonkwo underscored the importance of domestic financing, equity, institutional reliability, and trust for the long-term success of Nigeria’s HIV response. He noted that Nigeria has developed one of the world’s largest HIV treatment programs, with over 1.78 million people receiving treatment by 2023. Despite the progress, challenges remain, particularly in the areas of equity, financing, and governance.
Okonkwo emphasized the need for reliable domestic funding and reaching those still excluded from care to sustain the progress made. He noted that prevention services in pregnancy reached only about two-thirds of those in need in 2024, and a significant portion of HIV spending was financed by external partners between 2019 and 2021.
Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), called on academics to collaborate with government and policymakers by providing indigenous research data to support effective policy formulation. She congratulated Okonkwo and the university management on the success of the lecture.
Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, praised the lecture for demonstrating the practical application of evidence-based recommendations and congratulated Bingham University for its achievements. She expressed pride in being associated with the institution.